Why E-Portfolios?

In
its simplest form an ePortfolio allows existing learning of all media types to
be pulled together into one convenient location with ease of accessibility
through hyperlinking to available evidence. This evidence is not simply the
completed work, but more significantly, the rationale for the inclusion of this
work within the ePortfolio. Barrett states it is the: “accompanying rationale
that the learner provides: their argument as to why these artifacts constitute
evidence of achieving specific goals, outcomes or standards” (Barrett, 2005)

Portfolios used for
Assessment OF Learning

Purpose of portfolio
prescribed by institution

Artifacts mandated by
institution to determine outcomes of instruction

Portfolio usually
developed at the end of a class, term or program - time limited

Portfolio and/or artifacts
usually "scored" based on a rubric and quantitative data is collected
for external audiences

Portfolio is usually
structured around a set of outcomes, goals or standards

Sometimes used to make
high stakes decisions

Summative - what has been
learned to date? (past to present)

Requires Extrinsic
motivation

Audience: external -
little choice

Portfolios that support
Assessment FOR Learning

Purpose of portfolio
agreed upon with learner

Artifacts selected by
learner to tell the story of their learning

Portfolio maintained on an
ongoing basis throughout the class, term or program - time flexible

Portfolio and artifacts
reviewed with learner and used to provide feedback to improve learning

Portfolio organization is
determined by learner or negotiated with mentor/advisor/teacher

Rarely used for high
stakes decisions

Formative - what are the
learning needs in the future? (present to future)